Residents of Fairmount neighborhood define a community of choice
The third and final part of a resident survey of the historic Fairmount neighborhood near WSU, conducted by the Public Policy and Management Center at Wichita State, examines resident support of current or potential economic development taking place on campus and in the surrounding area. The findings from this part of the study will be presented from 1-2 p.m. today (Monday, Dec. 18) at the Experiential Engineering Building at WSU, 4110-4526 E. 17th St. North.
The presentation will feature perspectives from President John Bardo on the connections between WSU and the Fairmount community. Residents, WSU personnel, the media and the public are welcome to attend.
The latest research presentation wraps up a communitywide survey that included an assessment of residents' perceptions of their community and a household needs assessment, both of which were presented earlier this fall. The research will be used to inform priorities at Wichita State as they relate to the Fairmount community to which the university has been historically tied.
"Wichita State University is developing a place-based economic development model to better position this region to compete in the global economy," explains lead researcher Mark Glaser. "This model requires that the university and the Fairmount neighborhood blend into a single 'community of choice,' a 'destination place' where people want to live, work and play. Survey findings indicate neighborhood residents see the investments taking place on and around the campus as positive contributions to the creation of a community of choice."
The Shocker Neighborhood Coalition (SNC) has been working alongside residents for the past three years to strengthen the health, safety and vitality of the neighborhood. As part of the university's commitment to engaging and supporting the Fairmount neighborhood, Bardo requested the comprehensive survey of neighborhood residents with assistance from the SNC to better understand perceptions and needs of the community. Funding from the Kansas Health Foundation provided dedicated resources for staff, community engagement expertise and a support network for WSU to work more comprehensively with the Fairmount community.
The full report and an infographic of highlights can be found at http://www.wichita.edu/fairmount
The Shocker Neighborhood Coalition is made up of University faculty, staff and students. In addition to providing University faculty and staff with research and service opportunities, participation with the SNC provides WSU students with real-world opportunities to make a difference and utilize applied learning techniques. The intent is that the SNC would serve as a resource for energy, expertise, support, leadership and person-power in our city to assist with the accomplishment of our preferred outcomes.
The purpose of the Community Engagement Initiative (CEI) is to support residents of communities with elevated concentrations of health risks in their effort to create and implement policy, systems and environmental change strategies for a healthier community. The long-term goals of CEI are to increase healthy eating and active living in the participating communities.
The Public Policy and Management Center (PPMC) at Wichita State University continues a long-standing mission of applied research and community service. For more than 55 years, the Center has been responsible for advancing excellence in public service by developing and connecting people, organizations and community.